Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Series: Sanctuary #1
Format: Audiobook ALC
and Kindle ARC
Narrator: Karen Peakes
Length: 9 hrs 55 mins
No. of pages: 352
Date of Publication: March 5, 2025
Date of Publication: March 5, 2025
Rating: 5 Stars
DESCRIPTION:
Paradise Alden's childhood in Nova Cambridge, Alabama, was idyllic until the night her parents were murdered. Since then life has left her scarred. The abuse she suffered in the foster care system, her first love's betrayal, and the jaguar attack that nearly destroyed her career have led to an unshakable distrust--in men, in God, and maybe in even in herself.
After fifteen years, returning to her hometown is a last resort to finding her life again. She's hoping the wildlife refuge where she's accepted a veterinarian job will be the perfect place to heal from her recent traumas and unlock her memories about the night her parents died. But on the day she arrives at The Sanctuary, a body is discovered on the grounds. And soon, a series of deadly events threatens not only her future but the man who, despite all odds, still makes her pulse stutter. Arson, a shooting, a break-in, and multiple instances of animals being freed from their enclosures all point back to him, but Paradise knows Blake Lawson isn't responsible. Not the man who has been helping his mother manage The Sanctuary these past six months and care for his stepbrothers in the wake of their father's death . . . even if his betrayal years ago cost her everything.
Someone dangerous is lurking beneath the town's moss-draped trees, and Paradise refuses to let another murderer disappear into the shadows.
MY THOUGHTS:
Paradise Alden knows trauma. Her life has been a series of unfortunate events that have shaped her into the person she has become. Embracing the changes that Paradise has decided to make in her life have her returning to her hometown, fifteen years after she left. Triggers are going to be part of her daily life, but the chance she has to work with animals at the Sanctuary that she once worked with is one she is looking forward to.
Comfort, peace and Paradise’s new start is immediately sidetracked when a woman’s body is discovered near one of the animal enclosures. With the help of Blake Lawson and his mother, Paradise wants to restore the much-needed peace to the Sanctuary. Although Paradise had a difficult life growing up in the foster system, she was able to find respite whenever she visited the Sanctuary. It was there when Paradise and Blake met, and for six summers they were almost inseparable. Shocked and heartbroken at Blake’s betrayal then destroyed their connection and left Paradise heartbroken.
The Sanctuary has undergone significant changes over the years, but Paradise is immediately drawn in. She and the others are concerned that the murder will have a negative impact on the sanctuary, so finding answers is paramount. The local sheriff is eager to investigate and suspects Paradise, Blake, or his mother of the crime.
With a deep love for the animals at the Sanctuary and a desire to prove their innocence, Paradise and Blake must work together. However, whether or not she can forgive Blake will undoubtedly make her new start even more challenging.
Colleen Coble’s engaging read is the first book in a new thrilling series. With a captivating narration having intensifying the drama, I was fully drawn into the story. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the second book, Prowl.
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I'm so glad you loved it, Robin, thank you!
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